Local fans driving Volkswagen Nationals forward

Blenheim should prepare for a swarm of Beetles this Easter – accompanied by hundreds of various other types of Volkswagens and their drivers.

Easter Weekend in Marlborough will see Volkswagen enthusiasts from across the country converge on Marlborough for the ‘VDubs in the Vines’ National rally from April 18 to 21.

The 33rd running of the Volkswagen Nationals is organised this year by BoomTown Dubbers with sponsorship from Volkswagen New Zealand, Details Blenheim, Dubbed, Ritual Café, Buzzbug Parts and Just One More Bug.

Friday sees Registrations and a Quiz Night at the Vines Village for registered attendees, while Saturday’s Show and Shine at Lansdowne Park will be the best opportunity for keen locals to see all of the vehicles together ahead of an 80’s-themed dinner and dance back out at the Vines Village.

The Volkswagen convoy then spends Sunday exploring the Wairau Valley with a scenic cruise for lunch at the Alpine Lodge in St Arnaud, before returning to town for a social Burger and Beers evening at 5Tapped. Lastly to wind up the weekend there is a Farewell Breakfast held at Details Blenheim on Monday morning before everyone begins their travels home.

Host club, the BoomTown Dubbers, are keen to show off the renowned Marlborough hospitality to the multitude of Volkswagen enthusiasts travelling to the region.

"We have a great family like vibe to the BoomTown Dubbers, and we all get along well which has made the organisation of the 33rd NZ Volkswagen Nationals - VDubs in the Vines - a fun project working together", says BoomTown Dubber Aaryn Nicholson.

“For the most part it was that connection to the VW brand that brought the group together in one way or another. If one of the Dubbers has some work to do on one of their cars, it's common to have many of the group there lending a hand, offering emotional support with good banter.

“We can have ten to fifteen cars on a BoomTown Dubbers social cruise with even more to attend car shows. The group are always keen to lend a hand if fellow Volkswagen enthusiasts are passing through the region and are in need of assistance by offering help and expertise to ensure folks get back on the road to carry on their journeys.”

The BoomTown Dubbers have a very diverse selection of cars amongst the group, boasting some of the rarest models of VWs in NZ. “We're all looking forward to getting them out & around the region over Easter for the Nationals and welcoming the VW community from around the country to enjoy what Marlborough has to offer”.

As the Nationals get closer, Ange Nicholson says the support from businesses, both local and from around the country has been incredible.

“We're thrilled to be able to bring an action packed weekend with an incredible lineup of events throughout the region for the Volkswagen Nationals to Marlborough and we are grateful for the amazing support from so many businesses – we couldn’t have done it without them!”

Show and Shine, Lansdowne Park Saturday 19th April. Gates open to the public 10am – 3pm with entry by gold coin donation which goes to the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust.